The Chester and Ellesmere Port titles will now come under Rob, while Liverpool Echo editor Alastair Machray will assume responsibility for the Runcorn title.

In the course of his 40 years in journalism, Eric has worked as a reporter, news editor, sub editor and since the 1990s as an editor.

After writing countless headlines, he himself recently made the news after fighting off bowel cancer.

He said: “I have had a wonderful time in journalism spanning the last 40 years and I have thoroughly enjoyed leading what I believe to be the best weekly newspaper group in Britain for the last 12 years.”

“Our titles are the top five in the country in circulation terms, which is something I am very proud of, especially my colleagues who produce quality newspapers week on week to an exceptional standard.”

“I am looking forward to my retirement and will now be able to join the thousands of happy Weekly News readers who enjoy their local newspaper week to week.”

He added: “I am particularly grateful to colleagues and friends who supported me throughout my illness.”

Warren Butcher, managing director of Trinity Mirror North West and North Wales, said: “The restructure of our management, commercial and editorial teams is vital to ensure the development of our multimedia publishing business across Merseyside, Cheshire and North Wales.

“As a result of this restructure Eric Langton, Editor in Chief, Cheshire, has decided to leave the business to pursue fresh opportunities.

“In his time as editor he has successfully battled serious illness whilst developing a range of multi-award-winning titles.

“We would like to take this opportunity to wish Eric success and happiness in future and to thank him for a huge and remarkable contribution to many of Trinity Mirror’s Regional Newspapers.”

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